Compostable, biodegradable or recyclable? A guide to packaging labels
Published 2026-10-23
Recyclable, recycled-content, compostable and biodegradable describe different things. None is a universal instruction for which kitchen bin to use. Check the evidence for the exact product and the collection route available to your business.
What each term tells you
| Term | What to establish | Practical question |
|---|---|---|
| Recyclable | The material can be processed through a suitable recycling system | Does our collector accept this item in its used condition? |
| Recycled content | A stated share of the product comes from recovered material | What percentage is evidenced for this product? |
| Industrially compostable | Breakdown under specified managed composting conditions | Is the exact product certified and is a dedicated route available? |
| Home compostable | Suitability for specified home-composting conditions | What certificate and instructions support the claim? |
| Biodegradable | Breakdown under stated conditions and over a stated period | Are the conditions and timeframe actually specified? |
A recycled-content statement is not evidence of local recyclability. A certificate for industrial composting is not a home-composting certificate.
Disposal is a separate decision
England's workplace recycling guidance says packaging labelled compostable or biodegradable cannot be recycled with food waste. Arrange a dedicated collection if available or follow non-recyclable-waste guidance. Do not place compostable film in ordinary plastic recycling.
Clean foil may be accepted in a metal collection, but food contamination affects what your collector will accept. Used or coated parchment should not automatically go in paper recycling or a composting stream.
PlanetWrap's current evidence status
- Cling film: marketed as compostable, with certification documents pending upload; no home or industrial composting certification is currently claimed.
- Catering foil: no recycled-content percentage verified for publication, so no recycled-content claim is currently made.
- Parchment: no environmental certification currently claimed.
There are no certificate downloads on the site yet. Check the evidence page or request current supporting documents before specifying a product.
Frequently asked questions
Is compostable always better than recyclable?
No. The outcome depends on the product, how much is used, and the real disposal system. A claim about a specific environmental benefit needs evidence.
Can I call packaging eco-friendly?
Avoid broad, unsupported descriptions. State the specific, evidenced attribute and any important conditions instead.
Is a recycling symbol enough?
No. Match the exact material and its used condition to your collector's instructions.